By Wale Joseph, Abuja
Following the commencement of payments to Nigerian athletes through the Athletes Relief Fund set up by Youth and Sports Development Minister, Mr Sunday Dare, to cushion the effects of COVID-19, commendations have poured in from the beneficiaries.
In an emotional letter to Dare on behalf of Special Sports athletes, Paralympian Ifeanyi Christian wrote: “I want to thank you for all the efforts and diligence you have put in towards bettering the welfare of Nigerian athletes. On behalf of my colleagues I want to sincerely appreciate the gesture of payment of relief funds to the athletes. May God bless you as you continue to lead the campaign for the improvement of athletes’ welfare.”
Speaking in the same vein, Adeseye Ogunlewe Junior said: “I wish to say a big thank you to the Minister of Youth and Sports Development for the gesture of paying N50,000 each to athletes through the Sports Relief Fund. We are most grateful.”
Glory Patrick stated: “For the special joy you added into my life and those of other athletes through the Athletes Relief Fund, we say a big thank you. May God bless the minister and all those that contributed to the fund.”
Bode Abiodun said: “I want to appreciate this kind gesture from the minister for extending the palliative to us. God bless you sir. Your leadrship and abilities to get things done is an inspiration to us. May God reward you for your relentless efforts towards the athletes.”
The Minister floated the Athletes Relief Fund to cater for the needs of athletes following the suspension of all sporting activities as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Chairman of Remo Stars Football Club Honourable Kunle Soname made a donation of N10 million to the fund, with an anonymous Nigerian supporting with N1 million. More funds are expected from other philanthropists who are already in touch with the ministry.
